Basic Banking for Massachusetts was launched in 1994 to expand access to bank products and services and to encourage those with modest incomes to establish banking relationships. Banks participating in Basic Banking for Massachusetts voluntarily provide low-cost checking and savings accounts that help participants save money.

Every child has the legal right to get money from both parents, whether the parents are separated, divorced or were never married. You may be able to get child support and/or health coverage from your child's other parent. The child support you receive will help you make a better life for you and your children. If you are not already receiving child support, call DOR , Child Support Enforcement Unit at 1-800-332-2733.

The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) administers the emergency assistance program through the Division of Housing Stabilization (DHS). If you are worried about losing your current home, DHS has a number of resources that can help you. You can find DHS online or at 617-573-1370 or toll free at 877-418-3308.

Income Verification

DTA provides letters of verification for benefits received and the status of existing benefits to clients and former clients of TAFDC, EAEDC, and SNAP. The verification may be used to determine eligibility for other benefits and services such as public housing, school lunch programs, fuel and energy programs, financial aid and holiday gift giving programs. To receive an income verification letter, clients and former clients may contact the Department at 1 877-382-2363. An automated message will guide you through the request. You will be asked to provide the social security number and birth year of the head of your household.

The Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance is committed to ensuring that funds are directed toward individuals and families who truly need assistance. If you suspect fraud in the public assistance program, please call our toll-free hotline at 1-800-Fraud-99 (1-800-372-8399) or fill out the Suspected Fraud Reporting Form and email or fax it to the Department of Transitional Assistance. Your confidentiality will be respected. Anonymous information is also accepted.

If you or someone in your family works, you may be eligible for the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the state Earned Income Credit (EIC) tax credits. Filing EITC/EIC tax credits could mean you will pay no taxes and still get a refund from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR). To qualify, you must work and meet certain income and other requirements and file a tax return, even if you did not earn enough money to be required to file. In Massachusetts, getting the EITC/EIC refunds will not affect your eligibility for MassHealth/Medicaid, SSI, food stamps, low-income housing, EAEDC or TAFDC. For more information about EITC/EIC or to find out how to get free help with filing your tax return, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 (TTY/TDD: 1-800-829-4059) or for state information call the DOR at 617-887-MDOR (6367) or toll-free in Massachusetts:1-800-392-6089.